She was born on October 8, 1943 in Piqua, Ohio, the daughter of Amyl Shaner and Mary (Trissel) Shaner Hojara.

Barbara had received her degree in child development through Indiana Vocational Technical College and had worked in both food service and home health care in the Muncie area for many years. She had enjoyed reading, doing puzzles and the company of cats and dogs. Ms. Means was very dedicated to her family and friends. Barbara had been a big supporter of the Military especially while her son was in the service during the Gulf War and Desert Storm era.